Spy photographers caught the first pictures of Mercedes’ upcoming compact GLK-Class SUV that will compete with the successful BMW X3 and Audi's forthcoming Q5. The vehicle pictured is an actual prototype of the GLK, rather than a test mule.

The GLK is using mechanical components from the next-generation Mercedes C-Class, which is set to debut in March 2007. In terms of exterior design, it will be very similar to the larger GL-Class. The GLK might debut as a 2008 model at the IAA car show in Frankfurt in September 2007, however Geneva 2008 sounds more reasonable. Yearly production is expected to be 40,000 units with starting prices of about 35,000 Euros.

Power is expected to come from four and six cylinder engines, both gasoline and diesel. A more powerful V8 AMG model could be offered later. Mercedes will offer the crossover in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions, with the GLK 220 CDI as the basis rear-wheel drive version and the GLK 280 as a gas alternative. The all-wheel drive versions will be the GLK 350 with 272 bhp and the GLK 320 CDI with 224 bhp. All versions are expected to have the 7G-Tronic, TouchShift automatic transmission.